A relaxation of visa restrictions for certain European travellers to Russia could boost Sochi’s bid for the 2014 Winter Olympic bid. Those who would benefit from the new simpler visa procedures are athletes, businessmen and women, journalists, politicians, diplomats, students, civil servants and long-distance freight drivers. The new rules will make it easier for athletes and the media, if Sochi is awarded the 2014 Winter Olympic Games.
President Vladimir Putin spoke at the latest EU-Russia Summit held in Sochi Thursday saying that he hoped the delegation had enjoyed their visit to Sochi and calling on those present to support the city’s bid to host the 2014 Games.
Dmitry Chernyshenko, CEO of Sochi 2014 said, “today’s announcement demonstrates that Russia is a step closer to welcoming the world with open arms. As soon as the new system is up and running key European personnel will find it easier to travel in and out of Russia in advance of the Games in 2014, so this is very positive news for the bid”.
